Bhartrihari Caves Ujjain
Table of Contents
History, Timings, Location & Visitor Guide
Bhartihari Cave is located on the banks of the Kshipra River, around 3 km from the Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain. It was built in the 11th century CE and is based on rock-cut architecture with several rooms. The stepbrother of Vikramaditya, Bhartihari, was a saint who used to meditate and live here. He was also a poet and scholar. The samadhi of Bhartihari is denoted by the large Peepal tree standing around the cave. The complex also has the Nava Nath temple and the Kali temple.
Where are the Bhartrihari Caves located in Ujjain?
Bhartihari Caves are an ancient cave complex located on the banks of the River Kshipra. This cave complex dates back to the 11th century which includes 3 caves named after Sage Bhartihari. The caves are located on the mount which is elevated above the ground level. Tourists visit this place after visiting the Mahakaleshwar Temple.
Why are they famous?
Bhartihari Caves are known for a very renowned poet and saint, Bhartihari, who used to meditate and reside here for 12 years after leaving all the luxuries of life. He rejected his luxurious lifestyle as a king and wore the attire of austere because of his heartbreak.
History of Bhartrihari Caves
The history of the Bhartihari Caves dates back to the 11th Century when King Bhartihari became a saint and poet who meditated here and wrote a group of three hundred couplets, also known as Trishatak, which includes Shringar Shatak, Niti Shatak, and Vairagya Shatak. He is well-revered as the author of the epic Bhattikavya and Vakyapadiya, which amplifies linguistic philosophy and Sanskrit grammar. Bhartihari belonged to the royal family. Along with the ruler’s family, Bhartihari was next to achieve the crown, but he resigned for his brother.
Spiritual Significance of Bhartrihari Caves
- Why do devotees visit Bhartrihari Caves?
According to local priests, these caves have secret passages that go towards Char Dham in India. Bhartihari Caves have several rooms that have idols of Hindu deities.
- Meditation and spiritual importance
The Bhartihari caves have great spiritual importance as King Bhartihari used to meditate here after leaving all the perks and privileges of his royal family. He meditated here for over 12 years, which scared Indra, who thought Bhartihari would attack Swarga Loka. As a result, Indra threw a rock at Bhartihari, but he stopped the stone with his one hand and kept on meditating. These caves also have footprints of Bhartihari as evidence that he lived here.
Bhartrihari Caves Timings and Entry Fee
Bhartihari Caves open for entry at 6 am in the morning and close at 9 pm. Entry is free for the caves. When it comes to duration, around 1 hour is sufficient to explore the whole cave system.
How to Reach Bhartrihari Caves?
Bhartihari Caves are located at Bhartihari Giya in Ujjain. These caves are located around 4 km from the Mahakaleshwar Temple and the Ujjain railway station. Devotees can use a local auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach the Bhartihari caves.
Best Time to Visit Bhartrihari Caves
It is highly recommended to visit the Bhartihari caves during the winter months. First of all, the weather remains pleasant and cool to explore the whole of Ujjain. Second, summers become extremely hot and even more uncomfortable in caves. If you visit during the monsoon, you will find lush greenery all around the caves. But the pathways become slippery and hard to navigate. For a comfortable visit, tourists are recommended to hire an auto-rickshaw in advance, which will help them to explore the whole town in one go.
Travel Tips for Visitors
When visiting the Bhartihari caves, there are certain things to keep in mind for tourists and visitors –
- The rules are almost the same, whether visiting the Mahakaleshwar Temple or any other religious place in Ujjain.
- Wear comfortable but modest attire covering knees and shoulders. In simple words, traditional Indian attire.
- Photography is prohibited inside the caves as it is clearly mentioned on the walls.
- Don’t touch any idol, tridents, or holy ashes.
- As discussed earlier, the caves were once used for meditation. So, keep silent when going inside.
- When going with children, parents or guardians have to look after them during the visit and make sure they don’t touch anything out of curiosity.
- Elderly visitors can visit the caves if they don’t have any breathing issues.
Nearby Places to Visit
Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga
Ujjain is especially known for the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga. If someone is visiting Ujjain, they must visit this temple to seek blessings from Lord Shiva to continue their journey.
Kal Bhairav Temple
It is believed that your Mahakal darshan cannot be considered complete without having darshan of Kal Bhairav. Kal Bhairav Temple is located near Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple.
Harsiddhi Temple
Dedicated to Mata Parvati, Harsiddhi Temple is one of the 51 Shaktipeethas located in Ujjain. It is one of the major temples in town, located within walking distance of the Mahakal temple.
Ram Ghat
If you are visiting Ujjain, Ram Ghat is one of the most attractive destinations to visit. It has several temples to visit. You can walk around Ram Ghat on the tranquil banks of the river where Kumbh Mela is celebrated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sandipani Ashram worth visiting?
Yes. It is one of the most important historical and spiritual sites in Ujjain associated with Lord Krishna’s education.
What is Gomti Kund?
A sacred pond inside the ashram is believed to contain water brought from various holy rivers by Lord Krishna.
How much time is needed to visit?
Most visitors spend around 1–2 hours exploring the ashram.
Is there an entry fee?
Generally, entry is free for visitors.
Can families visit?
Yes. The ashram is suitable for pilgrims, families, students, and spiritual travellers.
Conclusion
Bhartihari Caves are a very peaceful and serene tourist attraction. If you want to experience a calm and soothing atmosphere, you must visit this place while sightseeing in Ujjain. It is recommended by authorities that only 50 people should enter the caves at once. It has the samadhi of Raja Bhartihari, along with the Mahakali temple, the Hanuman temple, and other temples. All in all, the Bhartihari Caves are a must-visit tourist attraction when it comes to exploring Ujjain to the fullest.
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